Control panel on Amana freezer displays E3; temperature display may flash and compressor cycling is erratic.

Safety: Unplug the freezer before opening the control housing.

Procedure:

• Access the control housing: On many Amana uprights, remove the screws securing the top/front control console and gently lower it.
• Identify the ambient sensor: Look for a small two-wire thermistor mounted near the air intake or inside the control housing, often in a plastic holder.
• Inspect connections: Check the plug connection to the main control board. Disconnect and reconnect to clean the contacts. Look for corrosion or moisture.
• Test the sensor: With the unit unplugged, disconnect the thermistor and measure resistance at room temperature (around 70°F/21°C). Typical values are in the 5–10 kΩ range depending on the exact part. If it reads open or shorted, replace it.
• Check harness: If the sensor tests good, inspect the harness from the sensor to the board for pinched or broken wires and repair as needed.
• Replace control if needed: If wiring and sensor are good but E3 persists, replace the electronic control board with the correct Amana OEM part.

Tip: Avoid mounting the freezer in extremely hot or cold locations; extreme ambient temperatures can stress the sensor and control.